Background: Advances in modern medicine, including biologics, gene therapies, and minimally invasive
procedures, have improved patient outcomes but often remain financially inaccessible. Individuals in rural
and underserved communities frequently face barriers such as limited healthcare infrastructure, lack of
insurance, and economic constraints. These challenges can delay proper wound care and increase the risk
of infection and chronic complications. Honey, historically used in traditional medicine, has gained
renewed scientific interest because of its antimicrobial and wound healing properties.
Aim: This literature review examines whether honey’s antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and tissue healing properties make it a viable adjunct or short-term wound management option for underserved populations. The review focuses on biochemical characteristics including high osmolarity, low pH, viscosity, and enzymatic production of hydrogen peroxide. Methodology: A qualitative literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed biomedical studies investigating honey-based wound treatments. Studies assessing antimicrobial activity, wound-healing outcomes, and clinical or experimental wound models were analyzed to identify common therapeutic mechanisms and benefits.
Results: Multiple studies report that honey inhibits bacterial growth, including antibiotic-resistant strains such as MRSA, while maintaining a moist environment that supports tissue repair and reduces inflammation. Certain varieties, including Manuka and Tualang honey, show enhanced antimicrobial activity due to bioactive compounds such as methylglyoxal and phenolic antioxidants. However, variation in honey composition and limited large-scale clinical trials remain barriers to standardized medical use.
Conclusion: Current evidence supports honey as a promising, low-cost adjunct for wound care in settings with limited access to conventional treatment. Contribution to the Field: This review synthesizes evidence on honey’s therapeutic mechanisms and highlights its potential as an accessible wound-care strategy while identifying gaps for future research.
Aim: This literature review examines whether honey’s antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and tissue healing properties make it a viable adjunct or short-term wound management option for underserved populations. The review focuses on biochemical characteristics including high osmolarity, low pH, viscosity, and enzymatic production of hydrogen peroxide. Methodology: A qualitative literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed biomedical studies investigating honey-based wound treatments. Studies assessing antimicrobial activity, wound-healing outcomes, and clinical or experimental wound models were analyzed to identify common therapeutic mechanisms and benefits.
Results: Multiple studies report that honey inhibits bacterial growth, including antibiotic-resistant strains such as MRSA, while maintaining a moist environment that supports tissue repair and reduces inflammation. Certain varieties, including Manuka and Tualang honey, show enhanced antimicrobial activity due to bioactive compounds such as methylglyoxal and phenolic antioxidants. However, variation in honey composition and limited large-scale clinical trials remain barriers to standardized medical use.
Conclusion: Current evidence supports honey as a promising, low-cost adjunct for wound care in settings with limited access to conventional treatment. Contribution to the Field: This review synthesizes evidence on honey’s therapeutic mechanisms and highlights its potential as an accessible wound-care strategy while identifying gaps for future research.